30 June 2023
 Categories: , Blog

Limbing is a type of tree trimming that seems simple enough but has numerous special considerations. It's the removal of limbs (typically using a chainsaw or other mechanical cutter) from the main branch of the tree. It's performed on trees that have a relatively straightforward vertical dimension, such as pine, spruce, or fir trees. Limbing can be performed for design reasons (tidying up the look of the tree), or for fire prevention (stopping the tree from serving as a fuel ladder). As it turns out, there are some hidden risks to limbing.

Unpredictable and Dangerous

Unless you're suitably experienced, it's unwise to attempt this type of tree trimming on your own trees. The motion of the chainsaw becomes unpredictable and extremely dangerous once you exceed the height of your own shoulders. You're forced to extend your arms upwards while wielding an active chainsaw, and this is a recipe for disaster. If you're suitably experienced, you may be able to limb smaller trees up to shoulder level. Anything beyond that requires professional assistance, and you should call in a tree services provider, who will use appropriate elevation, like rolling scaffolding (a mobile platform).

Minimal Outgrowth

Even though limbing a tree such as pine, spruce, or fir may seem like a DIY task, please don't get lulled into a false sense of security and attempt to perform the work with a ladder and your own chainsaw. It can appear to be an easy job because these types of trees have minimal outgrowth, so the limbs in question don't require much cutting to detach. But as mentioned, anything higher than the height of your own shoulders becomes extremely risky. 

Compression of the Limbs

Limbing can also be performed in conjunction with topping, which is a type of trimming that removes the upper growth of the tree (for appearance or safety reasons). The removed sections of the tree may also require limbing once on the ground. The removed sections of the tree are dropped to the ground and may be compressing a limb, pinning it beneath them. Once cut, the limb can release a great amount of potential energy, creating an incredibly strong kickback. The outward force of the cut branch can inflict serious injury. A professional knows where to position themselves to avoid this kickback and how to cut the branch to offset the release of kinetic energy.

Even though the dimensions of a pine, spruce, or fir tree may make it seem like limbing is a simple proposition, remember it's a specialized task. Contact a local company to learn more about tree trimming.